Does Brighton and Hove need another pizza joint? The short answer is yes, read on to find out why…
The name ‘Pommy’s’ is derived from the word ‘Pomodoro’ the Italian word for tomato, found at the heart of every great pizza. What sets Pommy’s apart from other pizzerias in the city is its distinctive New York style. Expect a thinner, foldable base, perfect for eating on the go.
Italian owners Ricardo and Stephan explained that New York pizza is not American, but in fact, Roman. The pizza’s origins date back to 1905, when Naples-born Gennaro Lombardi rocked up and opened the very first pizzeria in Manhattan, bringing the beloved Italian staple to American workers one slice at a time. Pommy’s embraces this ethos and you too can now buy decent pizza one slice at a time.
So what does it taste like? Ricardo presented a platter with different slices for us to sample and I got stuck into my first (and favourite) Cacio & Pepe, featuring ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan and pecorino. The team makes the white sauce base in house and as a self-confessed cheese addict, I adored the creamy ricotta and generous grated parmesan and pecorino combo. The base is indeed foldable and thin, and satisfyingly chewy.
I’ve always wanted to try vodka sauce and my wish was granted with the next slice, simply named Vodka, featuring the aforementioned vodka sauce, mozzarella, basil and parmesan. It boasted a delicate creamy tomato flavour, and the vodka enriches the tomato sauce to great effect.
Finally, we tried a slice of Grandma (never thought I’d ever be writing those words…), which is square cut and much denser than the other pizza offered. A rich tomato sauce covered the top and the pizza is characterised by its cheese first, sauce second approach, just like Grandma used to make.
The verdict? Pommy’s is a slice of New York with an Italian soul in the heart of Brighton. With something for everyone, a relaxed vibe, and one of the first new venues to open in the revitalised Imperial Arcade, it’s well worth a visit.
